U.S. patent application number 17/337574 was filed with the patent office on 2021-12-09 for interface for ventilator.
The applicant listed for this patent is Loewenstein Medical Technology S.A.. Invention is credited to Benjamin ADAMETZ, John ALBERTS.
Application Number | 20210379307 17/337574 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 1000005710166 |
Filed Date | 2021-12-09 |
United States Patent
Application |
20210379307 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
ADAMETZ; Benjamin ; et
al. |
December 9, 2021 |
INTERFACE FOR VENTILATOR
Abstract
A ventilator comprising a respiratory gas source and control
systems, a housing with a receptacle and, lying at the base in a
depression, an interface for receiving different data transfer
sticks and data storage sticks.
Inventors: |
ADAMETZ; Benjamin; (Hamburg,
DE) ; ALBERTS; John; (Reinbek, DE) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Loewenstein Medical Technology S.A. |
Luxembourg |
|
LU |
|
|
Family ID: |
1000005710166 |
Appl. No.: |
17/337574 |
Filed: |
June 3, 2021 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A61M 16/022 20170801;
G16H 20/40 20180101; A61M 2205/52 20130101; G16H 40/63 20180101;
A61M 2205/3576 20130101; A61M 2209/04 20130101 |
International
Class: |
A61M 16/00 20060101
A61M016/00; G16H 40/63 20060101 G16H040/63; G16H 20/40 20060101
G16H020/40 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Jun 6, 2020 |
DE |
102020003438.1 |
Claims
1. A ventilator, wherein the ventilator comprises a housing, at
least one respiratory gas source, at least one control system and
at least one interface, wherein the housing comprises a receptacle
for the at least one interface, and the receptacle is arranged with
the interface in a depression of the housing, wherein the
depression is designed as a well, and the well has an opening,
wherein at least two circumferential walls extend from the opening,
in a direction of an interior of the ventilator, as far as to a
base, and wherein the receptacle is arranged with the interface in
a region of the base or of a circumferential wall of the
depression.
2. The ventilator of claim 1, wherein the depression is closable by
a lid.
3. The ventilator of claim 1, wherein at least one circumferential
wall comprises guide elements for guiding a data transfer stick
and/or a data storage stick and supporting same in a mounted
state.
4. The ventilator of claim 2, wherein the lid is arranged movably
relative to the housing and is secured on the housing.
5. The ventilator of claim 2, wherein the lid comprises at least
one fitting or a surface structuring in order to make it easier to
open the lid.
6. The ventilator of claim 2, wherein a mechanism is installed in
the housing and/or a circumferential wall, which mechanism at least
partially opens the lid when pressure is applied and returns it
again to a starting position when renewed pressure is applied.
7. The ventilator of claim 1, wherein the receptacle with the
interface, and the depression are sealed off from an interior of
the ventilator.
8. The ventilator of claim 2, wherein the lid can be closed using a
tool.
9. The ventilator of claim 2, wherein the lid is designed as a
slide.
10. The ventilator of claim 2, wherein the lid, in a closed state,
latches in a corresponding device in the circumferential walls
and/or a housing edge and/or in/on the housing.
11. The ventilator of claim 1, wherein the depression is arranged
in an outer face of the housing, at a distance from a housing
edge.
12. The ventilator of claim 1, wherein the receptacle with the
interface is recessed in the housing in such a way that a data
transfer stick plugged in the receptacle and in the interface can
be arranged fully in the depression and terminates at most flush
with a surface of the housing but does not protrude beyond the
housing surface.
13. The ventilator of claim 1, wherein the interface and/or the
receptacle and/or the depression comprises a removal device with a
reset function, and a data transfer stick or a data storage stick
is guided, by actuating the removal device, into a position in
which it no longer terminates flush with the housing or is arranged
inside the housing but instead at least partially protrudes from
the housing.
14. The ventilator of claim 1, wherein the interface comprises a
continuous current contact (aa) and/or an automatic current contact
(bb), wherein the automatic current contact (bb) is assigned a
sensor (cc) which is designed to detect a mechanical occupancy of
the interface.
15. The ventilator of claim 1, wherein the interface electrically
and optionally mechanically connects a data transfer stick to an
electronic circuit board present in the ventilator, directly or via
a cable connection, and wherein the interface is connected
electrically conductively to a control unit of the ventilator and
is configured for communication of data signals with the
ventilator.
16. The ventilator of claim 1, wherein a data transfer stick is
designed as an insert module which can be inserted into the
receptacle and plugged into the interface, wherein the interface,
through a connection of the data transfer stick, constitutes a
transmitter/receiver for establishing a wireless connection.
17. The ventilator of at claim 1, wherein the interface and/or the
receptacle and/or the base and/or the depression and/or the well
and/or at least one circumferential wall comprises elements and/or
is configured to prevent or attenuate electrical fields and
radio-frequency waves in at least one blocking direction.
18. The ventilator of claim 1, wherein the receptacle with the
interface is arranged movably in the depression.
19. The ventilator of claim 1, wherein at least one further
component and/or at least one further port is arranged in the
depression in addition to the interface, and wherein a region of
the interface in the depression is at least partially spatially
separated from the at least one further component and/or port by an
at least partially formed partition wall.
20. A system for establishing a wireless connection, wherein the
system comprises at least one ventilator, at least one interface,
at least one data transfer stick and at least one lid, wherein the
interface is arranged in a depression, and the data transfer stick
is connected removably in the depression to the interface, and
wherein the depression can be closed with the at least one lid.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] The present application claims priority under 35 U.S.C.
.sctn. 119 of German Patent Application No. 102020003438.1, filed
Jun. 6, 2020, the entire disclosure of which is expressly
incorporated by reference herein.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
1. Field of the Invention
[0002] The invention relates to an interface for medical
appliances, for example ventilators and anesthesia appliances and
also combinations of the two aforementioned appliances for
ventilation and anesthesia of patients. In the present invention,
an interface is understood as a data transfer point that allows the
specialist medical personnel to receive patient data and also to
control and monitor actively, and in a partially automated manner,
basic functions of the medical appliances at a location remote from
the patient.
2. Discussion of Background Information
[0003] A ventilator is to be understood below as any appliance
which supports the natural breathing of a user or patient, which
takes over the ventilation of the user or patient and/or which
serves for respiration therapy and/or influences the respiration of
the user or patient in some other way. This includes for example,
but not exclusively, CPAP and BiPAP appliances, anesthesia
appliances, respiration therapy appliances, ventilators (for use in
hospitals, in non-hospital environments or in emergencies),
high-flow therapy appliances and coughing machines.
[0004] In previously known ventilators, remote data transfer is
permitted by a modem implemented in the appliance or by Wifi/WLAN
modules permanently installed on the electronic boards. The
disadvantage of such a solution is that modems are difficult to
exchange in the event of a defect and generally reflect the state
of the art at the time of acquisition of the ventilator. An
additional factor is that there are different network and approval
standards in different states, and the permanently installed modem
or module would therefore have to be adapted accordingly in each
case. An additional factor is that ventilators are in most cases
fully configured, i.e. all the available functions are installed in
a medical appliance of this kind. This applies both to software
applications at time of manufacture and also to hardware components
and thus also to the aforementioned modem. Since ventilators are
capital goods that are used over a long period of time, it is
advisable to provide a possibility by which the data exchange can
be kept as close as possible to the state of the art. This applies
not only to the updating of the appliance software but also to the
modem, which is in most cases purchased from suppliers. Once
installed, it remains installed in the ventilator for the entire
period of use. Replacement with an up-to-date modem version is
complicated and costly and is therefore often avoided. It can even
happen that modems become so obsolete that they are in fact no
longer usable at all, and therefore this function is no longer
available on the ventilator. However, should this function be
required, it is first of all necessary to check whether a
ventilator equipped with this functionality is available. In the
worst case, replacement during ongoing ventilation is needed in
order to allow the medical personnel the possibility of acquiring a
suitably equipped appliance.
[0005] A modem is used when it is necessary or recommended to
control and monitor the patient from a location remote from the
patient. Here, remote from the patient signifies in particular the
operation of a ventilator over quite a considerable distance, where
proximity to the specialist medical personnel is not strictly
necessary.
[0006] The use of a data transfer interface thus has the advantage
that it can be equipped only as and when necessary with a data
transfer stick, which can then be procured at any time, and the
data transfer always takes place according to the latest state of
the art. The use of a data transfer stick thus also makes it
possible to save resources.
[0007] In view of the foregoing, it would be advantageous to have
available a standardized interface for data transfer sticks which
is easily accessible from outside.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0008] The present invention provides a ventilator with a housing,
at least one respiratory gas source, at least one control system
and at least one interface, wherein the housing has a receptacle
for the interface, and the receptacle is arranged with the
interface in a depression of the housing. The depression is
designed as a well, and the well has an opening, wherein at least
two circumferential walls extend from the opening, in the direction
of an interior of the ventilator, as far as to a base, and wherein
the receptacle is arranged with the interface in the region of the
base or of a circumferential wall of the depression. Here, a well
is considered quite generally as a space which, starting from an
opening, is at least partially surrounded to the sides by at least
two walls and has a base lying opposite the opening. For example,
it is possible for such a well to have only one open side, but it
can also for example have three or more open sides.
[0009] In some embodiments of the ventilator, at least one
circumferential wall has guide means in order to guide a data
transfer stick and/or a data storage stick and to support same in
the mounted state.
[0010] In some embodiments of the ventilator, the depression is
closed by a lid.
[0011] In some embodiments of the ventilator, the depression is
closed by a lid that closes substantially flush with the housing.
Unless expressly stated to the contrary, closes substantially flush
signifies that there is no or no appreciable offset/height
difference between the surface that represents the outer face of
the appliance and the surface that is represented by the outer face
of the lid. An offset/height difference in the region of 2 mm, for
example, can still be regarded as one that is substantially flush.
This excludes any fittings on or structuring of the surface of the
lid, for example for making it easier to open the lid, and any
structuring of the outer face of the housing, for example by a
certain roughness. The flush closure of the lid is also to be
understood as meaning that the edges of the closed lid lie close to
the edges of the housing. For example, there is a maximum spacing
of 2 mm between the edges of the lid and the edges of the housing.
For example, this spacing can also be embodied in the form of a
groove.
[0012] In some embodiments of the ventilator, the lid is arranged
movably relative to the housing and is secured on the housing.
[0013] In some embodiments of the ventilator, the lid has at least
one fitting or a surface structuring in order to make it easier to
open the lid. A fitting can be, for example, a narrow elevation
that can be gripped with the fingers. A surface structuring can be
obtained, for example, by a rough surface which generates a certain
sliding resistance between fingers and lid surface. The arrangement
of furrows, for example, on the surface of the lid can also provide
such surface structuring.
[0014] In some embodiments of the ventilator, a mechanism is
installed in the housing and/or the circumferential wall, which
mechanism at least partially opens the lid when pressure is applied
and returns it again to the starting position when renewed pressure
is applied. For example, a lid can be mounted which, for example,
closes flush with the housing and works without any extra fitting
or the like but is still easy to open. For example, a kind of
spring pressure element could be used which, when pressed in order
to open the lid, moves a kind of pin by means of the spring, which
in turn lifts the lid at least slightly, such that the latter could
then be gripped. During closure of the lid, the pin and the spring
can be returned to the original position by pressing.
[0015] In some embodiments of the ventilator, the lid is provided
with a peripheral seal.
[0016] In some embodiments of the ventilator, the interface has a
protection against spray water and against touching. The protection
against spray water and against touching is intended to prevent the
accidental admission of water and of foreign bodies into the
interior of the ventilator. This would also avoid being able to
reach into the interior of the ventilator through the interface. In
some embodiments, the protection against spray water and against
touching can be obtained by a suitably designed depression and/or
lid, for example with a seal. A corresponding seal at the interface
or in the region of the receptacle is also possible as a protection
against spray water and against touching. In further embodiments,
the protection against touching can attain class IP1X or higher
and/or the protection against spray water can attain class IPX1 or
higher.
[0017] In some embodiments of the ventilator, the receptacle, with
the interface, and the depression are sealed off from the interior
of the ventilator.
[0018] In some embodiments of the ventilator, the lid can be closed
using a tool. For example, the lid could be closed using a screw
which, in a position provided for this purpose, is screwed through
the lid into the housing.
[0019] In some embodiments of the ventilator, the lid can be closed
by a lock.
[0020] In some embodiments of the ventilator, the lid is designed
as a slide.
[0021] In some embodiments of the ventilator, the lid, in the
closed state, latches in a corresponding device in the
circumferential walls and/or the housing edge and/or in/on the
housing.
[0022] In some embodiments of the ventilator, the lid is connected
to the housing by a hinge.
[0023] In some embodiments of the ventilator, the depression is
arranged in the outer face of the housing, at a distance from the
housing edge. Thus, for example, the well is surrounded on all four
sides by a circumferential wall and is open only in the region of
the opening. This means, for example, that a data transfer stick or
a data storage stick can be inserted or removed only through the
opening.
[0024] In some embodiments of the ventilator, the depression is
part of the housing edge. This means, for example, that if no lid
is present the depression is open on at least two sides--the
opening and the part which is part of the housing edge.
[0025] In some embodiments of the ventilator, the depression
extends at least partially over two longitudinal sides of the
housing edge. For example, this would be the case if the depression
is arranged at a corner of the housing and two of the
circumferential walls are not present at this location.
[0026] In some embodiments of the ventilator, the interface permits
contacting with a large number of different data transfer
sticks.
[0027] In some embodiments of the ventilator, the interface permits
contacting with a large number of different data storage sticks,
for example USB sticks.
[0028] In some embodiments of the ventilator, the receptacle is
recessed in the housing in such a way that a data transfer stick
plugged in the receptacle and in the interface is arranged fully in
the depression and terminates at most flush with the housing
surface of the housing and does not protrude beyond the housing
surface.
[0029] In some embodiments of the ventilator, the interface has
engagement regions for fingers and/or thumbs in order to allow the
data transfer stick and/or data storage stick to be pulled easily
away.
[0030] In some embodiments of the ventilator, the interface and/or
the receptacle and/or the depression has a removal device with a
reset function.
[0031] In some embodiments of the ventilator, the data transfer
stick is guided, by the actuation of the removal device, into a
position in which it no longer terminates flush with the housing or
is arranged inside the housing but instead at least partially
protrudes from the housing.
[0032] In some embodiments of the ventilator, the interface
connects the data transfer stick mechanically and electrically.
[0033] In some embodiments of the ventilator, the interface
electrically and optionally mechanically connects the data transfer
stick to an electronic circuit board present in the ventilator,
directly or via a cable connection.
[0034] In some embodiments of the ventilator, the interface has a
continuous current contact and/or an automatic current contact,
wherein the automatic current contact is assigned a sensor which is
designed to detect a mechanical occupancy of the interface.
[0035] In some embodiments of the ventilator, the interface is
connected electrically conductively to a control unit of the
ventilator and is designed for communication of data signals with
the ventilator.
[0036] In some embodiments of the ventilator, the data transfer
stick is designed as an insert module that can be inserted into the
receptacle and plugged into the interface.
[0037] In some embodiments of the ventilator, the interface,
through the connection of a data transfer stick, constitutes a
transmitter/receiver which can be connected either to an ethernet
and/or radio and/or GSM and/or UMTS and/or 4G and/or 5G
network.
[0038] In some embodiments of the ventilator, the access to the
data of a data transfer stick located in the interface is protected
by password and/or hardware encoding.
[0039] In some embodiments of the ventilator, the interface can be
used both for a data transfer stick and for a data storage on which
patient data can be temporarily stored in order to further
distribute these data over other channels.
[0040] In some embodiments of the ventilator, the interface and/or
the receptacle and/or the base and/or the depression and/or the
well and/or at least one circumferential wall has means and/or is
designed to shield against electrical fields and radiofrequency
waves.
[0041] In some embodiments of the ventilator, the interface and/or
the receptacle and/or the base and/or the depression and/or the
well and/or at least one circumferential wall is designed to permit
electrical fields or waves only in the direction of the
opening.
[0042] In some embodiments of the ventilator, the interface can
also be used to transfer appliance software by means of a memory
stick from one appliance to another appliance.
[0043] In some embodiments of the ventilator, the lid can be locked
electronically.
[0044] In some embodiments of the ventilator, the electronic
locking of the lid can be canceled by an authentication.
[0045] In some embodiments of the ventilator, the electronic
locking of the lid is activated only when a data transfer stick
and/or a data storage stick is connected to the interface.
[0046] In some embodiments of the ventilator, the receptacle is
arranged in the lid, wherein the lid is connected to the
housing.
[0047] In some embodiments of the ventilator, the lid extends at
least over two longitudinal sides of the housing edge.
[0048] In some embodiments of the ventilator, the receptacle is
arranged movably in the depression.
[0049] In some embodiments of the ventilator, the receptacle moves
in the direction of the housing surface of the housing when the lid
is opened.
[0050] In some embodiments of the ventilator, the receptacle is
arranged on a cable which is electrically connected to the
ventilator or to corresponding control units and is at least
partially arranged in the depression, such that the receptacle can
be at least partially pulled outside the depression.
[0051] In some embodiments of the ventilator, at least one further
component and/or one further port is arranged in the depression in
addition to the interface.
[0052] In some embodiments of the ventilator, the region of the
interface in the depression is at least partially spatially
separated from the further components and/or ports by an at least
partially formed partition wall.
[0053] In some embodiments of the ventilator, the depression is
partially concealed by the housing surface.
[0054] In some embodiments of the ventilator, the receptacle with
the interface is arranged in or on one of the circumferential
walls, wherein the depression, in the region of the circumferential
wall in or on which the receptacle is arranged, is concealed by the
housing surface.
[0055] In some embodiments, at least one foam element is arranged
in the depression and/or on the lid. Such a foam element can be
used, for example, to retain the data transfer stick or the data
storage stick plugged into the interface or to fix it against
movements that might lead to accidental release of the connection
between data transfer stick and data storage stick.
[0056] In some embodiments of the ventilator, at least one spring
element for fixing the data transfer stick or the data storage
stick is mounted on the lid and/or in the depression.
[0057] The invention also provides a system for establishing a
wireless connection, comprising at least one ventilator, at least
one interface, at least one data transfer stick and at least one
lid, wherein the interface is arranged in a depression, and the
data transfer stick is connected removably in the depression to the
interface, wherein the depression can be closed with the lid.
[0058] Subject matter of the present invention therefore also is an
interface on the ventilator, which interface, on the one hand by
virtue of its shape and characteristics and on the other hand by
virtue of the possibility of using a large number of different data
transfer sticks conforming to the general standards, is able to
receive and transmit data. When selecting the precise position on
the ventilator, consideration should be given in particular to good
accessibility.
[0059] It is thus possible to dispense with a modem that is not
accessible from the outside.
[0060] Since the ventilators equipped with the interface according
to the invention are generally used in intensive care medicine and
in a homecare environment, operating errors and disturbances
associated with the use of the interface must be ruled out as far
as possible. In this context, operating errors are understood as
disturbances which are due to an error on the part of the
specialist medical personnel. Disturbances are in principle all
further errors that cannot be attributed to an operating error and
that are caused by external influences.
[0061] The interface should therefore comply with the high safety
demands placed on medical appliances, but without having to
compromise on operating comfort and functionality.
[0062] The interface should therefore be arranged on the ventilator
at a place that can be easily accessed by the operating personnel
and by technical personnel, and it should afford the possibility of
easy plugging. In one illustrative embodiment, the interface could
accordingly lie in the housing surface, delimited by four
circumferential walls, but it could also be located in the region
forming the housing surface edge and thus only be delimited by
three circumferential walls. It would likewise be conceivable to
place the interface in a corner region of the housing.
Consequently, in this case only two circumferential walls would
form a lateral boundary.
[0063] Mechanical access to the data transfer stick should be
readily possible for authorized persons, irrespective of the
precise nature, i.e. length, width, height, size, of the data
transfer stick. It is also plugged in the housing such that it
advantageously does not protrude above the housing edge, so as to
prevent it from being accidentally damaged or removed by mechanical
forces. In a further advantageous embodiment, it is also possible
to secure the stick against unauthorized removal and manipulation
from outside.
[0064] In principle, it should generally be possible for authorized
persons to remove the data transfer stick without tools. In some
embodiments, however, removal can also be possible by use of a
tool.
[0065] A system for blocking the data transfer stick would also be
conceivable in this context, for example similar to the
functionality, used in automatic vehicles, for preventing the
release of the key as long as the selector lever is not in park
mode. Release of the data transfer stick or data storage stick for
the purpose of removal is thus possible only when the specialist
medical personnel have provided authentication and are thus
authorized to remove the stick from the interface.
[0066] However, besides the abovementioned electromechanical
securing of the stick, purely mechanical securing arrangements are
also possible, such as closure of the well with a lid in different
embodiments.
[0067] In order to protect the well and in particular the contacts
from moisture, the lid is equipped with a peripheral rubber seal.
Here, the peripheral rubber seal does not necessarily have to be
mounted on the lid side.
[0068] This is achieved by an interface sitting in a depression of
different design and extent.
[0069] The aim of all of the aforementioned measures is to ensure
safety in the use of the functionalities of the data transfer
stick, without needlessly making handling more difficult.
[0070] This is further achieved by a cover which is connected
permanently to the housing of the medical appliance and which on
the one hand prevents the unauthorized removal of the stick and
also, by means of peripheral sealing lips integrated in the cover
or in the housing, affords protection against ingress of water or
moisture.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0071] The proposed interface in a ventilator is explained in more
detail below with reference to a number of different and in some
cases greatly simplified drawings. In the drawings:
[0072] FIG. 1 shows an illustrative embodiment of the claimed
ventilator in a simplified perspective view, with the housing 1 and
with the depression 9 configured as a well 10.
[0073] FIG. 2 shows a plan view of the ventilator from FIG. 1, with
the interface 6 in the receptacle 7.
[0074] FIG. 3 shows cross section A-A through the housing 1 from
FIG. 2.
[0075] FIG. 4 shows a plan view of an illustrative embodiment of
the ventilator, with data transfer stick 19 or data storage stick
20.
[0076] FIG. 5 shows cross section A-A through the housing 1 from
FIG. 4, with lid 16.
[0077] FIG. 6 shows cross section A-A through the housing 1 from
FIG. 4, with lid 16 and peripheral seal 17.
[0078] FIG. 7 shows a plan view of an illustrative embodiment of
the ventilator, with the depression 9 as part of the outer face 30
in the housing edge 18 of the housing 1.
[0079] FIG. 8 shows cross section A-A through the housing 1 from
FIG. 7, with data transfer stick 19 or data storage stick 20.
[0080] FIG. 9 shows a plan view of an illustrative embodiment of
the ventilator, with the depression 9 as part of two outer faces 30
in the housing edge 18.
[0081] FIG. 10 shows cross section A-A through the housing 1 from
FIG. 9.
[0082] FIG. 11 shows a perspective view of an illustrative
embodiment of the ventilator, 18.
[0083] FIG. 12 shows a cross section through an illustrative
embodiment of the ventilator, with housing 1 and with engagement
regions 22 at the depression 9.
[0084] FIG. 13 shows a cross section through an illustrative
embodiment of the ventilator, with a receptacle 7 with interface 6
arranged in the lid 16.
[0085] FIG. 14 shows a cross section through an illustrative
embodiment of the ventilator, with a receptacle 7 with interface 6
arranged on a cable 25.
[0086] FIG. 15 shows a plan view of an illustrative embodiment of
the ventilator, with a lid 16 designed as a slide.
[0087] FIG. 16 shows cross section A-A through the housing from
FIG. 15, with a lid 16 which is designed as a slide and which is
partially closed.
[0088] FIG. 17 shows a cross section through an illustrative
embodiment of the ventilator, with the depression 9 as part of the
outer face 30 in the housing edge 18 and with the lid 16 designed
as a slide.
[0089] FIG. 18 shows a cross section through an illustrative
embodiment of the ventilator, with the receptacle 7 with the
interface 6 arranged in a circumferential wall and a subregion of
the depression 9 concealed by the housing surface 31.
[0090] FIG. 19 shows a cross section through an illustrative
embodiment of the housing of the ventilator in which, in addition
to the receptacle 7 with the interface 6, a further port 34 is
arranged in the depression 9.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS
[0091] The particulars shown herein are by way of example and for
purposes of illustrative discussion of the embodiments of the
present invention only and are presented in the cause of providing
what is believed to be the most useful and readily understood
description of the principles and conceptual aspects of the present
invention. In this regard, no attempt is made to show details of
the present invention in more detail than is necessary for the
fundamental understanding of the present invention, the description
in combination with the drawings making apparent to those of skill
in the art how the several forms of the present invention may be
embodied in practice.
[0092] FIG. 1 shows a greatly simplified schematic view of an
illustrative embodiment of the ventilator or of the housing 1 in a
perspective view. The depression 9, which is designed for example
as a well 10 and in which the interface 6 is arranged, is arranged
here in the side of the housing 1 designated as housing surface 31.
Adjoining this housing surface 31 there extends the housing edge
18, which at the same time also constitutes the outer faces 30. The
arrangement of the depression 9 on the top of the housing
designated as housing surface 31 is to be understood here only as
an example. The depression 9 can also be arranged on one of the
outer sides or on the underside of the housing 1. Toward the
housing surface 31, the depression has an opening 11 through which,
for example, a data transfer stick 19 or a data storage stick 20
can be introduced into the depression. A data transfer stick 19 can
be a WLAN stick, for example, which permits a connection to
wireless networks, or also a so-called surfstick which, for
example, can permit a connection to 4G/5G networks. Other
configurations of the data transfer stick 19 are also conceivable
and possible here, for example for Bluetooth or LPWAN or other
wireless connections. To this end, for example, the depression 9
has guide means which, for example, guide the data transfer stick
19 into the receptacle 7 or the interface 6. These guide means can
additionally be configured such that they support or retain the
data transfer stick 19 or the data storage stick 20 in the mounted
state. For example, the depression 9, with the interface 6, or the
opening 11 should also be arranged to be easily accessible during
the operation of the ventilator. The greatly simplified view of the
example of the housing 1 as a cuboid serves for illustrative
purposes only and does not exclude other possible forms. The
housing 1 can additionally assume any other conceivable shape.
[0093] A plan view of the example of the housing 1 is shown in FIG.
2. The depression 9 configured as a well 10 is arranged spaced
apart from the housing edge 19 and is in this case delimited at the
sides by circumferential walls 12, 13, 14, 15 which extend from the
opening 11, in the direction of the interior of the ventilator, as
far as the base 8. In the region of the base 8, a receptacle 7 with
the interface 6 is arranged for example. The interface 6 is for
example configured such a large number of possible data transfer
sticks 19 and data storage sticks 20 can be connected to the
interface. For example, the interface has a USB port and/or a
lightning port. The interface 6 permits for example a communication
of data signals between the ventilator and the data transfer stick
19 or data storage stick 20. In addition to the electrical
connection, the interface 6 also constitutes in addition a
possibility of mechanical connection to a data transfer stick 19 or
a data storage stick 20. The receptacle 7 can be designed in
different variants. For example, while not excluding other
configurations, the receptacle can be an aperture which is provided
in the base 8 leading to the interior of the ventilator and which
surrounds the interface 6. Between the receptacle 7 and the actual
interface 6, seals can also be fitted for example, such that a
protection against spray water and against touching can be ensured.
In addition to an aperture in the base 8, it is also possible for
example that the receptacle 7 and the interface 6 protrude slightly
above the base 8 and jut into the space defined by the depression
9. Moreover, the receptacle 7 can also be designed such that it
additionally supports or completely assumes the retention of an
inserted data transfer stick 19 or data storage stick 20. The
depression 9 is shown by way of example with a rectangular
cross-sectional profile. Furthermore, however, the cross-sectional
profile can also assume oval or round shapes or also have a
polyhedral shape or a free form. Starting from the opening 11, the
cross-sectional shape can also vary in the direction of the base 8.
For example, the cross-sectional area in the region of the opening
11 can be larger and decrease in the direction of the base 8. This
is the case, for example, when the depression has additional
engagement regions.
[0094] The cross section A-A through the illustrative embodiment of
the housing 1 from FIG. 2 can be seen in FIG. 3. For example, in
the embodiment shown, the receptacle 7 and the interface 6 are
configured such that they protrude slightly into the space of the
depression and are arranged on the base 8. The upper edge of one of
the circumferential walls 12, 14 is indicated by the broken line at
the opening 11. The cross-sectional profile along the direction
from the opening 11 to the base 8 (y direction) is rectangular, for
example. Furthermore, however, other cross-sectional profiles of
the depression are also conceivable. On the circumferential walls
12, 13, 14, 15, for example, guide means can additionally be
mounted which guide the insertion of a data transfer stick 19 or a
data storage stick 20 and support these in the mounted state, i.e.
when plugged into the interface 6.
[0095] During use of the interface 6, a data transfer stick 19 or a
data storage stick 20 is connected to the interface 6, as is shown
by way of example in FIG. 4. By the connection of the data transfer
stick 19 to the interface 6, a transmitting/receiving arrangement,
for example, is formed which can be connected, for example, to an
ethernet and/or radio and/or GSM and/or UMTS and/or 4G and/or 5G
network. The depression 9 is dimensioned such that a data transfer
stick 19 or a data storage stick 20 can be received completely by
the depression. In some embodiments, it is also possible that the
depression 9 is dimensioned such that the data transfer stick 19 or
the data storage stick 20 protrudes partially through the opening
11 above the surface 31 of the housing.
[0096] FIG. 5 shows the cross section A-A of the example of the
housing 1 from FIG. 4. For example, a data transfer stick 19 or a
data storage stick 20 is connected in the receptacle 7 to the
interface 6. The depression 9 is for example dimensioned such that
the inserted data transfer stick 19 or data storage stick 20 does
not protrude above the surface 31 of the housing 1. For example,
the depression 9 is closed in the region of the opening 1 by lid
16. In some embodiments, the lid 16 can for example also close
flush with the housing 1. The lid 16 is for example connected
permanently to the housing 1. Such a connection can be achieved,
for example, by a hinge 26. A simple connection by a type of band
between housing 1 and lid 16 can also constitute a permanent
connection. In some illustrative embodiments, the lid 16 can be
closed firmly on the depression 9. For example, the lid 16 or the
housing 1 can be assigned a lock, with which the lid 16 can be
closed with a key. Such a closure is an example of a measure by
which the data transfer stick 19 or the data storage stick 20 is
protected against unauthorized removal. Alternatively, the lid 16
can for example also be designed to be closeable with other tools.
For example, the screwing of a screw into corresponding devices in
lid 16 and housing 1 can close the lid 16 firmly on the depression
9.
[0097] The lid 16 can for example also be coupled to the receptacle
7 and interface 6 such that, upon opening of the lid 16, the
receptacle and interface 6 are moved in the direction of the
opening 11. For example, when the lid 16 is fully opened, a data
transfer stick 19 or data storage stick 20 plugged into the
interface 6 protrudes at least partially above the housing surface
31.
[0098] An illustrative embodiment of the housing 1 with lid 16 is
also shown in FIG. 6. Here, the lid 16 is equipped for example with
peripheral seals 17. With the aid of these seals, it is possible to
protect the interface 6 against spray water and against being
touched. The seal 17 is shown here for example as part of the lid
16, but it can also be part of the opening 11 or can generally be
arranged as part of the depression 9.
[0099] For example, lid 16 and depression 9 are matched to each
other such that a seal 17 arranged on the lid 16 or on the
depression 9 contributes to the depression 9 and thus also to the
interface 6 being sealed off from the exterior of the ventilator.
In FIG. 6, the seal 17 is arranged for example between the
circumferential walls 12, 13, 14, 15 and the lid 16. However, it is
also conceivable for the seal 17 to be arranged along the
circumferential walls on an edge or collar on or in which the seal
17 is firmly inserted. When the lid 16 is closed, it then bears on
the peripheral seal 17 or for example is pressed onto the seal 17.
When the lid 16 is closed, this seal then presses for example
against the circumferential walls of the depression 9 or is pressed
onto an edge or collar that is arranged peripherally along the
circumferential walls. Alternatively, the lid 16 itself can also be
designed as a seal 17. To this end, the lid is made for example of
a soft plastic, for example silicone, and can be pressed sealingly
into the opening 11 of the depression. In a design of the lid 16 in
which it closes flush for example, a fitting 23 designed as a tab
for example could be mounted on the lid 16, in order to be able to
use the tab to pull the lid out of the opening 11. The depression 9
is for example dimensioned such that the data transfer stick 19 or
data storage stick 20 can be inserted spaced apart from the lid 16.
This spacing between data transfer stick 19 or data storage stick
20 and lid 16 should at least be so great that the lid 16 does not
exert any mechanical load on the data transfer stick 19 or the data
storage stick 20. It is also possible for there to be a spacing
between lid 16 and data transfer stick 19 or data storage stick 20
that is not apparent to the eye. In some embodiments, the lid 16
for example presses lightly on the data transfer stick 19 or the
data storage stick 20, such that the latter is supported in the
housing. For example, a retention element, in which the data
transfer stick 19 for example is inserted, is mounted on the lid
and/or in the well such that the data transfer stick 19 is firmly
clamped or pressed in. For example, this retention element can be
an elastic foam element which is mounted for example on the inner
face of the lid 16 and/or in the well 10. If the interface 6 is
arranged for example on the base 8 of the well 10, a foam element
can be mounted for example on the inner face of the lid 16. The
foam element is in this case designed such that, when the lid 16 is
closed with the data transfer stick 19 or data storage stick 20
inserted, the lid 16 or the foam element presses on the data
transfer stick 19 or the data storage stick 20. In the process, the
foam element for example deforms such that it essentially conforms
to the data transfer stick 19 or the data storage stick 20 but on
the other hand also contributes to fixing. Instead of a foam
element, it is also possible, for example, for a spring element to
be mounted on the inner face of the lid 16, which spring element
likewise can exert quite a light pressure on an inserted data
transfer stick 19 or data storage stick 20 for fixing purposes.
[0100] In some illustrative embodiments, the depression 9 is
arranged at least partially in an outer face 30 of the housing edge
18. Such an illustrative embodiment is shown in a plan view in FIG.
7, while FIG. 8 shows the cross section A-A from FIG. 7. Through
the position of the depression in the housing edge 18, the
depression 9 is open to the surface 31 of the housing 1 and also to
an outer face 30 in the housing edge 18. If, as is shown by way of
example in FIG. 8, a data transfer stick 19 or a data storage stick
20 is plugged in the interface 6, it is accessible from two
sides.
[0101] In the illustrative embodiments of the housing 1 shown in
FIGS. 9, 10 and 11, the depression 9 is arranged in a corner of the
housing 1 and is thus part of two outer faces 31 of the housing
edge 18. FIG. 9 shows a plan view of the housing 1, while FIG. 10
shows a schematic view of its cross section A-A. To illustrate the
position of the depression 9 in a corner of the housing 1, the
housing 1 is shown in a greatly simplified perspective view in FIG.
11. In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 9 to 11, the receptacle 7 with
the interface 6 is arranged in the circumferential wall 12. It is
likewise possible to arrange the receptacle 7 with the interface 6
in another circumferential wall or the base 8. In order to produce
a protection against spray water and/or against touching, a lid 16
can for example also be mounted on the depression 9, such that all
three open sides are closed. The lid 16 can in this case be
connected movably and permanently to the housing 1 or can also be
designed to be completely removable. For example, the lid 16 is
designed to be completely removable and, upon closure of the
depression 9, can be releasably connected to corresponding devices
in the housing 1 and on the lid 16, for example by latching or by
other ways and means. In another illustrative embodiment, the lid
16 can also be connected to the housing 1 at a side via a hinge 26.
In further embodiments, the permanent connection between housing 1
and lid 16 can be realized by a kind of band.
[0102] With the receptacle 7 with the interface 6 positioned in one
of the circumferential walls 12, 13, 14, 15 of the depression 9,
one or more spring elements can be mounted for example on the
opposite side--in the lid 16 or the opposite circumferential
wall--in order to support the retention of the data transfer stick
19 or of the data storage stick 20 in the interface 6. Upon
insertion of a data transfer stick 19 for example, the spring
elements are for example first of all compressed by the data
transfer stick 19, such that plugging of the data transfer stick 19
into the interface 6 is permitted. As the data transfer stick 19 is
plugged into the interface 6, the spring elements partially expand
outward again but do not reach their original expansion. As a
result of the further attempt by the spring elements to assume the
original expansion again, the data transfer stick 19 for example is
additionally pressed into the interface 6 and thereby retained. A
combination of different methods of retaining and fixing the data
transfer stick 19 or the data storage stick 20 in the interface 6
or the depression 9 is likewise conceivable. For example, the
spring elements described here can be arranged in the
circumferential wall 12, 13, 14, 15 lying opposite the interface 6,
and one or more foam elements can additionally be mounted on the
inner face of the lid 16.
[0103] FIG. 12 shows a schematic view of an illustrative embodiment
of the housing 1 of the ventilator, wherein the depression 9 has
engagement regions 22. These engagement regions 22 are realized,
for example, by a widening of the depression 9 in the region of the
opening 11. In this way, the region of the opening 11 opposite the
part of the depression 9 designed as well 10 is widened such that
it is possible for one or more fingers and/or thumbs to be placed
around the data transfer stick 19 or a data storage stick 20. For
example, these engagement regions 22 are dimensioned such that a
data transfer stick 19 for example protrudes partially above the
edge between the circumferential wall 12, 13, 14, 15 of the
depression 9 and the engagement region 22. For example, the
engagement regions 22 can also be linked to other functions, for
example devices for closing the lid 16.
[0104] In addition to the receptacle 7 with the interface 6 being
arranged in the base 8 or one of the circumferential walls 12, 13,
14, 15 of the depression, it is also possible for the receptacle 7
with interface 6 to be arranged in the lid 16. Such an illustrative
embodiment is shown in FIG. 13. The lid 16 is here connected to the
housing 1 by a hinge 26, for example. The receptacle 7 with the
interface 6 is mounted on one side of the lid 16. Thus, for
example, the data transfer stick 19 or the data storage stick 20
can be plugged into the opened lid 16 and, by closure of the lid
16, is guided into the depression 9. For example, the lid 16, or
more precisely the interface 6 arranged in the lid 16, is connected
to the housing 1 or the ventilator not only mechanically but also
electrically. In the absence of an electrical connection between
lid 16 or interface 6 and the ventilator, the interface 6 would
accordingly be unable to function, since data would not be able to
be exchanged between data transfer stick 19 or data storage stick
20 and the ventilator. For example, the lid 16 is connected
captively or permanently, but movably, to the housing 1. In an
illustrative embodiment in which the lid 16 is connected to the
housing by a kind of band, this band can also at the same time
assume the function of a cable for the electrical connection
between lid 16 and ventilator. The lid 16 can also be designed
separately, i.e. not permanently connected to the housing 1. If the
receptacle 7 with the interface 6 is situated for example in/on the
lid 16, then the lid 16 and the housing 1 or the ventilator would
need to have devices such that an electrical connection can be
produced between lid 16 and ventilator when the lid 16 is mounted
or closed.
[0105] For example, the lid 16 also has a fitting 23. This fitting
23 can be mounted for example in the form of a web or a thin
projection on the outer face of the lid 16, i.e. on the face that
does not lie in the depression 9 when the lid 16 is closed. Such a
fitting can be used, for example, by being gripped in order to open
the lid 16.
[0106] FIG. 14 shows a schematic view of an illustrative embodiment
of the ventilator, in which the receptacle 7 with interface 6 is
arranged on a cable 25 in the depression 9. The cable 25 is
designed such that the receptacle 7 with interface 6 can be pulled
at least partially through the opening 11 out of the depression 9
in order to connect a data transfer stick 19 or a data storage
stick 20 to the interface 6 or to remove it again. For example, the
depression 9 additionally has a device by which a data transfer
stick 19 or a data storage stick 20 connected to the interface 6 is
retained in the depression 9. It is thus possible, for example, to
prevent unintended movements of the data transfer stick 19 or of
the data storage stick 20 that might also lead to accidental
separation from the interface. For example, the cable 25 is guided
through the base 8 into the interior of the ventilator so that the
base is sealed off around the cable 25, such that the transition of
the cable 25 into the interior of the ventilator has a protection
against spray water and against touching.
[0107] In an alternative or supplementary embodiment, the base 8 of
the depression 9 can also be formed with a passage 35 through which
a line of the data transfer stick 19 is guided which is connected
to an interface 6 or plug connection 36 directly on an electronic
circuit board 37 of the ventilator.
[0108] The lid 16 can also be designed, for example, as a slide, as
is shown in an illustrative embodiment in FIG. 15. In the
embodiment shown, the opening 11 for example extends only in the
surface 31 of the housing 1. The lid 16 designed as a slide is in
this case guided on at least one guide rail 28 which is mounted on
at least one circumferential wall 12, 13, 14, 15 in the region of
the opening 11. For example, the lid 16 is equipped with a closure
device 27, for which a mating piece (not shown or described in any
further detail) is mounted in the housing 1. The closure device 27
has the effect that the lid 16, in the closed state, sits firmly on
the opening 11. The closure device 27 can be configured, for
example, such that electronic locking takes place if a data
transfer stick 19 or a data storage stick 20 is plugged into the
interface 6 and the lid 16 is closed. If, for example, the lid 16
is configured such that it closes flush with the housing surface
31, with the depression 9 arranged at a spacing from the housing
edge 18, a shoulder 32 for example is formed on one of the housing
edges 18, which shoulder 32 is set lower in relation to the housing
surface 31. This shoulder 32 is set lower such that the lid 16 can
be pushed on the guide rails over the opening 11 and thus closes
flush with the housing surface.
[0109] In an illustrative embodiment, a surface structuring 25 is
applied to the lid 16. This surface structuring is configured, for
example, such that the sliding resistance between for example the
fingers and the lid 16 is increased.
[0110] FIG. 16 shows the cross section A-A through the illustrative
embodiment of the housing 1 with the lid 16 designed as a slide.
For example, guide rails 28 are mounted on the circumferential
walls 13 and 15. For the positioning of the lid 16, slide elements
29 matching the guide rails 28 are mounted on the lid 16. The slide
elements 29 can additionally perform a retaining function for the
lid, e.g. when the depression 9 is mounted on the underside of the
ventilator and the lid 16 is intended to be secured against falling
out.
[0111] FIG. 17 shows an illustrative embodiment of the housing 1
and of the lid 16, wherein the depression 9 in the housing 1 is
part of one of the housing edges 18 and extends partially over an
outer face 30. On two mutually opposite circumferential walls,
guide rails 28 are mounted with which the lid 16 can be guided over
the slide elements 29. For this purpose, closure devices 27 are
mounted on the lid 16 and for example on the base 8 of the
depression 9 and together permit a locking, for example, of the lid
16 to the housing 1. The locking can be triggered automatically for
example, when the lid 16 is closed and a data transfer stick 19 or
a data storage stick 20 is connected to the interface 6 arranged
for example at the base 8. It would be possible for the locking to
be canceled, for example, by an authentication on the ventilator. A
simple latching of the closure device 27 of the housing 1 in the
closure device 27, or vice versa, is also conceivable for example.
In this case, for example, the lid 16 could also be removed without
an authentication being needed on the ventilator, for example. In
other illustrative embodiments, the closure devices 27 are designed
such the lid 16 can be closed or locked with the aid of a key, for
example.
[0112] The use, for example the startup, of a data transfer stick
19 after connection to the interface 6 may also require an
authentication. If a data transfer stick 19 is connected to the
interface 6, the stick 19 can for example begin data transfer only
when this is enabled or authenticated via the ventilator. In some
embodiments, a one-off enabling suffices after the connection of
data transfer stick 19 to interface 6.
[0113] If the receptacle 7 with the interface 6 is arranged for
example in one of the circumferential walls 12, 13, 14, 15, as is
shown by way of example in FIG. 18, a subregion of the depression 9
can be concealed by the housing surface 31. For example, the region
of the depression 9 in which the receptacle 7 with the interface 6
is arranged in one of the circumferential walls can be concealed by
the housing surface 31.
[0114] FIG. 19 shows an illustrative embodiment of the housing 1 in
which, in addition to the receptacle 7 with the interface 6, a
further port 34 for example is arranged in the depression 9. In the
embodiment shown in FIG. 19, the receptacle 7 with the interface 6
is arranged for example on the circumferential wall 12, although it
can also be arranged in one of the other circumferential walls 13,
14, 15, the base 8 or the lid 16 (not shown here). Similarly, the
further port 34 or additional ports or components can be mounted in
the base 8 or at least one of the circumferential walls 12, 13, 14,
15 or the lid 16. The port 34 can be designed, for example, such
that an O.sub.2 measurement cell can be attached. Other functions
of the port 34 are also possible, for example for the attachment of
a battery or of other analysis devices or medical devices. The
number and the function of further ports 34 or of other components
(not described in any further detail) are not limited by the stated
examples. It is therefore to be understood that, in addition to the
described interface 6, further components and ports, not limited in
number and function, can be arranged in the depression 9. For
example, the region of the interface 6 is at least partially
spatially separated by a partition wall 33 from the region with the
additional port 34. For example, the partition wall 33 can have a
height such that the partition wall 33 ends flush with the housing
surface 31. In some embodiments, the height of the partition wall
33 is for example chosen such that the partition wall 33 does not
end flush with the housing surface 31. For example, the partition
wall 33 has means or is designed for shielding against
radiofrequency waves and electrical fields. For example, the
partition wall 33 can also have means or be designed such that
electrical fields and sources are permitted only in one preferred
direction. In the case of an arrangement of several ports 34 and/or
components in addition to the interface 6, further partition walls
33 can also at least partially spatially separate the respective
regions from one another.
[0115] An example of an alternative configuration of the embodiment
shown in FIG. 19 comprises, instead of an interface 6 with
receptacle 7 directly in the depression 9, a passage 35 for a line
(for example a cable) from the data transfer stick 19 to an
attachment point 36 of the interface 6 on an electronic circuit
board 37 (not shown) of the ventilator. The passage 35 is for
example arranged and configured such that the attachment point 36
is reachable through the passage 35, the data transfer stick 19 can
be placed in the depression 9 and the data transfer stick 19 can be
connected to the attachment point 36 of the interface 6 via a line.
In some embodiments, a line can also be connected to the attachment
point 36 of the interface 6, such that the line constitutes a
lengthening of the interface 6, as is shown for example by the
cable 25 in FIG. 14.
[0116] To sum up, the present invention provides:
[0117] 1. A ventilator which comprises a housing, at least one
respiratory gas source, at least one control system and at least
one interface, wherein the housing comprises a receptacle for the
at least one interface, and the receptacle is arranged with the
interface in a depression of the housing, wherein the depression is
designed as a well, and the well has an opening, wherein at least
two circumferential walls extend from the opening, in a direction
of an interior of the ventilator, as far as to a base, and wherein
the receptacle is arranged with the interface in a region of the
base or of a circumferential wall of the depression.
[0118] 2. The ventilator of item 1, wherein the depression is
closable by a lid.
[0119] 3. The ventilator of item 2, wherein at least one
circumferential wall comprises guide elements for guiding a data
transfer stick and/or a data storage stick and supporting same in a
mounted state.
[0120] 4. The ventilator of item 2, wherein the depression is
closed by a lid that closes substantially flush with the
housing.
[0121] 5. The ventilator of item 2, wherein the lid is arranged
movably relative to the housing and is secured on the housing.
[0122] 6. The ventilator of item 2, wherein the lid comprises at
least one fitting or a surface structuring in order to make it
easier to open the lid.
[0123] 7. The ventilator of item 2, wherein a mechanism is
installed in the housing and/or a circumferential wall, which
mechanism at least partially opens the lid when pressure is applied
and returns it again to a starting position when renewed pressure
is applied.
[0124] 8. The ventilator of at least one of the preceding items,
wherein the interface comprises a protection against spray water
and against touching.
[0125] 9. The ventilator of at least one of the preceding items,
wherein the receptacle with the interface, and the depression are
sealed off from the interior of the ventilator.
[0126] 10. The ventilator of item 2, wherein the lid can be closed
using a tool.
[0127] 11. The ventilator of item 2, wherein the lid is designed as
a slide.
[0128] 12. The ventilator of item 2, wherein the lid, in a closed
state, latches in a corresponding device in the circumferential
walls and/or a housing edge and/or in/on the housing.
[0129] 13. The ventilator of at least one of the preceding items,
wherein the depression is arranged in an outer face of the housing,
at a distance from the housing edge.
[0130] 14. The ventilator of at least one of the preceding items,
wherein the interface permits contacting with a large number of
different data transfer sticks and/or a large number of different
data storage sticks.
[0131] 15. The ventilator of at least one of the preceding items,
wherein the receptacle with the interface is recessed in the
housing in such a way that a data transfer stick plugged in the
receptacle and in the interface can be arranged fully in the
depression and terminates at most flush with the surface of the
housing but does not protrude beyond the housing surface.
[0132] 16. The ventilator of at least one of the preceding items,
wherein the depression comprises one or more engagement regions for
fingers and/or thumbs for allowing a data transfer stick and/or a
data storage stick to be pulled easily away from the interface.
[0133] 17. The ventilator of at least one of the preceding items,
wherein the interface and/or the receptacle and/or the depression
comprises a removal device with a reset function, and a data
transfer stick or a data storage stick is guided, by actuating the
removal device, into a position in which it no longer terminates
flush with the housing or is arranged inside the housing but
instead at least partially protrudes from the housing.
[0134] 18. The ventilator of at least one of the preceding items,
wherein the interface electrically and optionally mechanically
connects a data transfer stick to an electronic circuit board
present in the ventilator, directly or via a cable connection, and
wherein the interface is connected electrically conductively to a
control unit of the ventilator and is configured for communication
of data signals with the ventilator.
[0135] 19. The ventilator of at least one of the preceding items,
wherein the interface comprises a continuous current contact (aa)
and/or an automatic current contact (bb), wherein the automatic
current contact (bb) is assigned a sensor (cc) which is designed to
detect a mechanical occupancy of the interface.
[0136] 20. The ventilator of at least one of the preceding items,
wherein a data transfer stick is designed as an insert module which
can be inserted into the receptacle and plugged into the interface,
wherein the interface, through a connection of the data transfer
stick, constitutes a transmitter/receiver for establishing a
wireless connection.
[0137] 21. The ventilator of at least one of the preceding items,
wherein access to data of a data transfer stick located in the
interface is protected by password and/or hardware encoding.
[0138] 22. The ventilator of at least one of the preceding items,
wherein the interface and/or the receptacle and/or the base and/or
the depression and/or the well and/or at least one circumferential
wall comprises elements and/or is configured to prevent or
attenuate electrical fields and radio-frequency waves in at least
one blocking direction.
[0139] 23. The ventilator of item 2, wherein the lid can be locked
electronically, and wherein the electronic locking of the lid can
be canceled by an authentication.
[0140] 24. The ventilator of at least one of the preceding items,
wherein the receptacle with the interface is arranged movably in
the depression.
[0141] 25. The ventilator of at least one of the preceding items,
wherein at least one further component and/or at least one further
port is arranged in the depression in addition to the interface,
wherein a region of the interface in the depression is at least
partially spatially separated from the at least one further
component and/or port by an at least partially formed partition
wall.
[0142] 26. A system for establishing a wireless connection, wherein
the system comprises at least one ventilator, at least one
interface, at least one data transfer stick and at least one lid,
wherein the interface is arranged in a depression, and the data
transfer stick is connected removably in the depression to the
interface, and wherein the depression can be closed with the at
least one lid.
LIST OF REFERENCE NUMERALS
[0143] 1 housing [0144] 2 respiratory gas source [0145] 3 control
system [0146] 4 control system [0147] 5 control system [0148] 6
interface [0149] 7 receptacle [0150] 8 base [0151] 9 depression
[0152] 10 well [0153] 11 opening [0154] 12 circumferential wall
[0155] 13 circumferential wall [0156] 14 circumferential wall
[0157] 15 circumferential wall [0158] 16 lid [0159] 17 peripheral
seal [0160] 18 housing edge [0161] 19 data transfer stick [0162] 20
data storage stick [0163] 21 removal device [0164] 22 engagement
region [0165] 23 fitting [0166] 24 surface structuring [0167] 25
cable [0168] 26 hinge [0169] 27 closure device [0170] 28 guide rail
[0171] 29 slide element [0172] 30 outer face [0173] 31 housing
surface [0174] 32 shoulder [0175] 33 partition wall [0176] 34 port
[0177] 35 passage [0178] 36 attachment point [0179] 37 circuit
board [0180] aa continuous current contact [0181] bb automatic
current contact [0182] cc sensor
* * * * *